Rangers are back to where they belong i.e. the Scottish Premiership and the manager Mark Warburton made it sure that the Gers have enough in their locker to make their return count. The English manager did early business in the market this summer and made as many as nine signings to add both depth and much-needed quality to the squad. With the Scottish Premiership all set to kick off this weekend, Rangers look ready to dismantle rivals Celtic’s monopoly in Scottish football.
Even though there is a long time before the summer transfer window slams closed, Rangers look almost done in the market. Probably one or two deals could still happen to add further quality to the squad. Given the squad Warburton has in his hands right now, selecting his starting XI won’t be a straightforward task. The Gers have enough depth is every department and Warburton will have the luxury to revert his tactics and personnel as needed.
So, what should be the Gers’ best possible starting XI this season? We will discuss that in this article.
Defence
Even though Rangers brought in experienced Matt Gilks from Burnley, Wes Foderingham is likely to remain Warburton’s first choice between the sticks. Lee Wallace and James Tavernier are likely to keep their places in the two full-back positions while new arrival Lee Hodson will provide a decent cover for both positions. Probably the only area still asking for an addition is at the heart of the defence. Rob Kiernan and Danny Wilson should be Warburton’s first choice pairing at the back while veteran Clint Hill will provide a quality cover. Rangers should be in the market for a fourth choice centre-back as playing a whole season with just three options at the back is quite big a risk which they cannot afford right now.
Midfield
Joey Barton is likely to be a key figure in Rangers midfield this season thanks to his quality, experience and leadership abilities. Andy Halliday had a strong last season but will face a stern competition from new arrival Jordan Rossiter for a place in Warburton’s two-man midfield. Niko Kranjcar will be the prime creator of the side being the obvious choice as the number ten. Barrie McKay and Harry Forrester would be the first-choice wide players with the likes of O’Halloran and Dodoo providing solid competition.
Attack
Martyn Waghorn was an instant hit at Ibrox since his move to the club last summer and the Englishman will seek to sustain his incredible form in the Premiership now. Veteran Kenny Miller, even at the age of 36, offers a great cover for Waghorn.
